Though we might use the terms interchangeably, there is a difference between constipation vs bloating.

Constipation and bloating can coincide, but they don’t always or necessarily.

Constipation Hack Series

Fact: Constipation is a real pain in the a#$. Obviously this pun is well intended.

And since it’s such a struggle for women worldwide, I thought that my best contribution to the problem would be to provide the hacks, tips, and tricks I’ve done along the way.

Here is the very first video of the series, “What is Constipation + Hack #1:”

Anyways, the first thing I go over in the video is what exactly is constipation?

Constipation vs Bloating

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Constipation

Approximately 9%–20% of adults in the United States experience constipation. source

Constipation is correctly defined as the absence of more than three bowel movements per week.

However, the frequency with which a person “goes” varies significantly.

Some people have bowel movements multiple times a day, while others have one or two a week.

Whatever pattern of bowel movements you have, it is unique and natural for you – as long as you do not deviate too far from it.

However, one thing is sure: the longer you wait to “go,” the more difficult passing stool/poop gets.

The following additional characteristics typically define constipation:

• You have dry and firm stools.
• Your bowel movements are uncomfortable, and passing stools is difficult.
• You get a distinct impression that your bowels are not completely empty.

Furthermore, here is the overview for functional constipation criteria.

Sources: HERE and HERE

Bloat

Epidemiologic studies have determined that 15–30% of the general US population experience bloating symptoms. source

Now, what is bloat?

Bloating happens in the abdominal cavity (stomach).

It occurs when your gastrointestinal (GI) tract is partially or filled with air or gas. The gastrointestinal system extends from the mouth to the anus (bottom). It encompasses the entirety of your digestive system.

When bloated, you feel as if you have eaten a large meal and your stomach is full. It can be a source of discomfort or pain, and you might even physically notice that your stomach looks enlarged. And yes, it may cause your garments to fit more snugly.

Bloating makes your stomach feel full and constricted, most frequently due to gas.

Sources: HERE

Are Constipation and Bloat the same things?

So, are bloating and constipation the same? Or, why are they not the same?

First, they can go hand-in-hand and many times, for many, they do go hand-in-hand. A side effect of one can be the other.

But not always.

Think of the two like this in order to understand their differences:

1. Constipation: the act of having or not having a bowel movement, frequency of bowel movements
2. Bloating: the feeling you get in your stomach (regardless of bowel movement or not) as if there is a balloon blowing up

However, constipation can exacerbate stomach discomfort and bloat.

The longer stool remains in your colon (from a delay in transit), and the more prolonged bacteria have to ferment it, the more likely it is for gas and bloat to occur.

Sources: HERE

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So what are you supposed to do?

Both are highly frustrating, stress-inducing, and can be super painful. I dealt with both my entire journey so I know the exact feelings surrounding them.

First, use your journal to understand if you are dealing with constipation, bloating, or both.

My journal will help guide you. You can get the e-version, instant download HERE. Print it off and start your tracking.

You can also opt to have the A Gutsy Girl team send you our physical, spiral bound journal. Regardless, start journaling ASAP.

Then, once you know what you’re dealing with, make your plan for getting rid of it. This is a highly specific process depending on your own, unique circumstances.

My best suggestion is to understand exactly what’s going on and then start. If you need help, just “SEARCH” my website using the search bar for whatever term(s) you’re looking for.

For example:

1. HERE is what you’ll get when you search “constipation”
2. And HERE is what you’ll get when you search “bloated”
3. Or maybe you want to get even more specific? THIS is what you get when you search “constipation root cause”

And so on.

Whatever you do, do not stay bloated and constipated. You don’t have to. And you shouldn’t accept it as your daily life. Remember, thought they both might be completely common, neither are normal.

If you liked this post, you might also enjoy:

1. Can Constipation Cause Back Pain {+ 5 other things you didn’t know constipation can cause}
2. Probiotics for Constipation
3. How to Clean Your Stomach and Intestines Naturally

Xox,
SKH